Understanding how unique human genes affect brain function and autism.
Official title: Genomic approaches to understand human neural specializations
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11076755 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the unique genetic differences in our brains to see how they might relate to autism, and it's for anyone interested in understanding what makes our brains special and how that connects to autism and other brain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 18, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $127,305 |
| NIH project number | 5K99MH136290-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076755 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or those with a family history of ASD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to autism spectrum disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic differences that make human brains unique, particularly focusing on how these differences may contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study employs advanced genomic techniques to identify specific non-coding variants that influence brain development and function. By comparing human and chimpanzee genetics, the researchers aim to pinpoint which genetic variations are linked to neural specializations and how they may affect gene expression in brain cells. This work could lead to a better understanding of the genetic factors involved in ASD and other neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the genetic causes of autism, potentially informing better diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genomic approaches to understand neurological conditions, suggesting that this method could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Song, Janet — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Song, Janet
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.